A great stressbusting 5th Form Silver DofE Walking Expedition

A great stressbusting 5^th Form Silver DofE Walking Expedition.

After what has been a difficult year for DofE expeditions, and a couple of particularly stressful and uncertain weeks for the 5^th Form during the trial exam period, I and the other DofE staff hoped that this 2-day experience away from screens and academic pressures would prove an opportunity to unwind. Seeing the many smiles, hearing the incessant laughter and witnessing such terrific examples of teamwork and support between pupils, left us in no doubt that this was a hugely productive and above all happy weekend.

The forecast for day 1, (Saturday) had seemed somewhat daunting at the start of the week, with suggestions of heavy rain and continuous 40mph winds. Instead, however, besides slightly grey skies and a bit of drizzle, the conditions were fine for the 14 mile route undertaken, or 19 mile route for those with room to improve their navigational capabilities! In spite of a few unfortunate detours, which were pleasingly corrected by the groups themselves with no requirement for staff intervention, the day ran smoothly with pupils clearly making the most of the fresh air, positive camaraderie and beautiful scenery up and around the Stourhead Estate.

On Sunday, (day 2), groups were greeted with bright sunshine and little wind as they headed south towards Shepton Montague on a route that also took them via Cole, Castle Cary and Wyke on their way back to Bruton as part of a 12 mile route. Following analysis and discussion at the end of day 1 in relation to areas for improvement, teams performed much better by way of navigation and pace, and demonstrated intelligent responses to the onset of blisters and aches. All groups romped home in good time to cap off a very satisfying weekend.

While this practice was a real success for all groups, efforts will be necessary for all in the coming weeks to work on areas of weakness that could, if left untouched, compromise the successful completion of the longer 3-day / 2-night qualifying expedition planned for the end of June on Exmoor. In addition to a big ‘well done’ to the 24 pupils involved, Mr Loveless would like to thank Miss Flavell and Mr Thompson, who as always brought cheer as well as excellent guidance and advice to the pupils involved.

Tom Loveless - DofE Leader

Flickr album: DofE Silver Walking Expedition - 8th & 9th May 2021 | Height: auto | Theme: Default | Skin: Default Skin